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City of Chillicothe (2023) Print
2023 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Public places
└ Public space activation
└ Public space activation
The City of Chillicothe transformed a neglected lot in the Sixth Ward into its first neighborhood park, addressing a lack of green space in an area with high obesity rates and low life expectancy. The new pocket park features ADA-compliant walkways, benches, picnic tables and a playground, all within a fenced, well-lit space. Residents now have a safe place to gather and stay active, with one grandmother sharing that her grandkids "are so excited to walk to the park and play" while she enjoys sitting nearby.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
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Oxford, AL
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2018
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: Oxford's historic downtown is home to restaurants, shops, art galleries, historic churches and a first-class performing arts center. Its brick-paved sidewalks are great for strolling, but the area lacked seating options. To address this, Historic Main Street Oxford installed metal benches, as well as two bike racks. This enables Main Street visitors to grab an ice cream cone with a friend and rest comfortably in the shade. The new amenities came during a downtown streetscaping project, which included installing accessible sidewalks, new lighting and improved landscaping.
Sisseton, SD
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2020
Project Category: Public space activation
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Saint Peter, MN
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2023
Project Category: Public space activation
Description: A long-vacant downtown lot in Saint Peter was transformed into a vibrant plaza after decades of inactivity. Volunteers painted a 70-by-70-foot mural, built benches, picnic tables and added lighting and signage to create a welcoming space for gatherings. Events such as live music, art fairs and literary readings introduced residents to placemaking and sparked conversations about revitalization. "Watching people look around with fresh eyes... was magic," said an organizer, noting the plaza has become the only true downtown gathering spot and a catalyst for future projects.
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Chillicothe, OH
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2021
Project Category: Public or private transit access
Description: A planning study revealed a lack of accessibility throughout the Chillicothe Transit System, with some riders to sit on the ground while they wait for the bus. To address this, the City stepped in the make bus stops more accommodating for riders of all ages and abilities. First, project organizers identified areas of town with high numbers of older adult transit riders and passengers with mobility challenges. Then they installed benches -- as well as swing sets -- at several bus stops. They also added bus shelters at two stops and erected new signage at more than 60 others. In the future, project organizers plan to add a mural to the pavement at the local library's bus stop. Organizers say the improvements make waiting for the bus more comfortable, which may lead to increased ridership.
Lancaster, OH
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Bike Audits
Description: A bike path connecting a high school and a community park lacked safety features, prompting two audits to identify hazards and gather community input. Residents, local partners and an injury prevention specialist joined the effort, and feedback was shared with the city planner to guide upgrades. Plans now include safer crossings and enhancements like public art, while the audit report will support funding applications for long-term improvements. One older participant suggested organizing groups to keep the path clean, reflecting strong community engagement.
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